Wat Nantaram is located near the Chiang Kham municipal market. Its founding date is unclear, but it served as a temple for the local Tai Yai community. Originally called “Wat Chong Kha”, it had a grass-thatched roof (“Chong” means temple in Tai Yai). Locals called it “Wat Chong Nuea” because it was located north of the town center.

The initial land was donated by Mr. Mong Pho Khin (approx. 3 rai), and Mr. Ubon oversaw the construction. Later, Ms. Jam Heng donated an additional 5 rai 1 ngan 72 sq. wah, making the total temple grounds 8 rai 1 ngan 72 sq. wah.

Current Vihara History
The current vihara was built by Mr. Nanta (U) Wong Anan, a devoted Tai Yai philanthropist, who funded the construction and restoration. Tai Yai craftsmen designed and built the full teak wood vihara in traditional style, with tiered roofs covered in wooden shingles. The ceiling features elaborate stained-glass designs, and 68 columns are gilded with lacquer. Construction cost was approximately 45,000 baht.

Main Buddha Image
The principal Buddha image, likely brought from Burma, was transported from the abandoned Wat Chong Ma Tha in Pong District by 80 villagers. It is a Buddha in the Mara Vichaya posture, carved from a single piece of teak wood, gilded, with Tai Yai-style decoration. The statue measures 51 inches across the lap and 9 sok high, standing on a wooden base with a carved back panel and glass inlays, surrounded by intricate vine, angel, and mythical creature carvings.

First Grand Celebration
The major restoration and construction took about 10 years, completing in 1934 (B.E. 2477). Mr. Nanta presided over the 15-day festival from March 1–15, 1934, featuring religious merit-making, celebrations, and charitable food distribution. The temple was renamed “Wat Nantaram” in honor of Mr. Nanta and the Wong Anan family.

Significant Antiquities

• Teak Wood Vihara – Built 1925 (B.E. 2468)

• Principal Buddha Image, Mara Vichaya posture – Carved teak, placed 1933 (B.E. 2476)

• Tai Yai-style Chedi – Brick and cement, octagonal, 9 sok high, built 1957 (B.E. 2500)

• Ubosot (Ordination Hall) – Brick and cement, Tai Yai style, built 1972 (B.E. 2515)

• Flower Pollen Buddha – Mixed fragrant woods with lacquer, offered by local donors

• Phra Chao Saen Sae – Bronze Buddha from Chiang Saen, 9-inch lap, 24-inch height_, registered as a historical object

• White Stone Buddha (Jade) – Burmese style, 14-inch lap, 18-inch height_, offered by Mae Kham La Warakul

Private Car / Motorcycle:

• From Chiang Kham town, take the main road toward Huayuan Municipal Market.

• Turn onto the local road to the temple, about 1–2 km.

• Parking is available at the temple.

Public Transport:

• Take a songthaew or minivan from Chiang Kham to Huayuan Market.

• Walk 5–10 minutes to the temple.

Taxi / Hire Car:

• Taxi from Chiang Kham takes about 10–15 minutes.

• Suitable for small groups or tourists who prefer not to drive.

• Admire the full teak wood vihara with unique stained-glass ceiling and carvings.

• Pray to Cupid behind the principal Buddha for love blessings.

• Visit Ho U Teng Mong museum to learn about Tai Yai history and culture.

Admission Fee:

• Free of charge

Opening Hours:

• Open daily, approx. 7:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.